Notice on Unauthorised Absence
According to documents reviewed by officials, the notice dated July 28 questions why Dr. Subberwal’s absence should not be treated as a break in service and why the pay and allowances received during this period should not be recovered. The ministry has sought a detailed explanation from her within a stipulated time.
Sources confirmed that the ministry has also approached the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) for details of her travel records to verify her visits to India during the period in question.
Violation of Service Rules
Government service regulations mandate prior approval for extended leave, especially for foreign travel. Any violation of these norms can result in disciplinary action, recovery of funds, and in some cases, termination of service. The ministry’s notice indicates that serious lapses were found in the way Dr. Subberwal availed leave.
Officials are examining whether her absence was misrepresented and if salary disbursement during the period violated financial and service conduct rules.
Social Media Presence Raises Questions
What makes the case unusual is Dr. Subberwal’s social media footprint. Her public profiles describe her as a filmmaker living in Canada, which contradicts her employment records in India. This discrepancy has fueled concerns about misuse of official position and resources.
Such cases, observers say, raise broader questions about monitoring mechanisms within government institutions and the need for stricter oversight to prevent misuse of public funds.
Next Steps by the Health Ministry
The ministry’s notice gives Dr. Subberwal an opportunity to explain her absence before further action is taken. If her response is deemed unsatisfactory, authorities may move to recover the salary paid during her absence and treat the period as unauthorised leave.
Cases of prolonged absence without approval have previously led to suspension or dismissal in similar instances, highlighting the seriousness with which such matters are handled.
